Corinthians loanee full-back on settling in Ukraine, eyes progress

In partnership with

Central do Timão

·10 ottobre 2025

Corinthians loanee full-back on settling in Ukraine, eyes progress

By Henrique Pereira / Central do Timão Editorial Team

On loan from Corinthians to Karpaty, of Ukraine, left-back Diego Palacios is beginning his journey in the 2025/26 European season. Signed with the competition already underway, the Ecuadorian is still going through a period of adaptation to the new club, his teammates, and the local style of play. According to the player himself, missing the pre-season made the start more challenging and required patience to reach the ideal rhythm.

“I arrived about a month ago. I’m gradually getting used to the language, which is still difficult for me. I really like the group; it’s an excellent team. There’s a very healthy environment here, and that doesn’t always happen at every club. This first month has been complicated. It hasn’t been easy to adapt to the team’s style of play and stay focused all the time. But I feel that I learn something new every day.”, the athlete began, speaking to ФК Карпати Львів, the club’s official YouTube channel.

OneFootball Video

Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Ag. Corinthians

“Each training session helps me evolve and prepare better for matches. I feel great support from the coach. He talked a lot with me, and that gave me more confidence. I hope, with God’s help, to be able to show my best in the matches to help the team. After all, first and foremost, we need to become a true family, because only then will we achieve great results,” he continued.

In addition to the challenges on the field, Palacios also faced tense moments off it. In his first weeks in Lviv, the city where Karpaty is based, the player had a frightening experience when he witnessed bombings during the early hours from Saturday to Sunday, a reflection of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite the scare, the full-back showed resilience and remained focused on adapting to the country and his new routine.

On the pitch, so far, the Ecuadorian has only one appearance for Karpaty, in the 8–0 rout over Penuel, in the second round of the local Cup, played on August 24. Even with limited minutes, Palacios showed enthusiasm for Ukrainian football and for the intensity of the training sessions and matches.

“To be honest, I never imagined I would play in Ukraine. But I feel that God gave me this opportunity at the right time, and I want to make the most of it. When I arrived, I realized the great quality of Ukrainian football. The pace is very intense, and the coach always demands the most from us. That’s great, because it’s what allows you to reach the level of the big European leagues, known for their intensity and speed.”, he said.

“I believe Ukraine isn’t far from that level. I’m sure that, in a few years, the Ukrainian league can become one of the major leagues on the continent. With work and dedication, we can make this league very interesting and attractive, so that everyone will want to come and enjoy football here.”, he went on.

Looking ahead, Diego Palacios also shared his personal goals and professional ambitions. The full-back highlighted his desire to grow alongside Karpaty and help the club secure a place in European competitions.

“I’m here because I want to prove my worth and that I can still give my best. I feel I have a lot to offer football. One of my dreams is to play in the Champions League, the dream of any player. I work every day to raise my level to the maximum. I’m happy at this club and feel we’re preparing to compete at a high level. Why not fight for a spot in a European tournament, like the Europa League or the Conference League? I believe we can achieve it. Every training session and every match are opportunities to show our potential and keep growing.”, he concluded.

Currently, Karpaty sit eighth in the Ukrainian Championship, with 11 points from eight rounds, with two wins, five draws, and one loss. The club is seeking to establish itself in the upper half of the table, while Palacios works to earn a starting spot. The Ecuadorian, on loan until June 2026, is competing for the position with Ukrainian Andriy Buleza, the current starter at left-back.

See more: